Which Red Paddle Board Should You Upgrade To In 2026?

Which Red Paddle Board Should You Upgrade To In 2026?

Red continues to innovate at the forefront of the inflatable SUP market with the new Future Series collection. While Adventure Series boards are very highly rated and trusted for durability and performance, Future Series models push the limits forward even further with lighter, stiffer constructions and refined designs. Join us as we break down the best Red paddle board upgrades across key categories to help you choose the right board to meet your paddling goals in 2026.

Adventure Series vs Future Series - What’s The Difference?

How does Red’s classic Adventure Series differ from the new Future Series lineup?

Designed for durability, reliability and ease of use, Adventure boards are built in our own MSL material and excel as versatile inflatable boards for riders of all experience levels. You’ll find a Red paddle board for every purpose in the Adventure range.

The Future Series represents Red’s next evolution in board design, featuring lighter, stiffer MSL constructions that deliver improved speed, rigidity and responsiveness. If you’re ready to push beyond your current SUP limits and want a board that feels faster, lighter and more capable in its niche, the Future Series is the logical step forward in 2026.

Best All-Round Upgrade - 11'0" Compact MSL 1000 Inflatable Paddle Board

For paddlers who want a versatile Red paddle board that feels at home in lakes, rivers and coastal waters alike, the 11'0" Compact MSL 1000 from our Future Series is a perfect all-round upgrade. Built with ultra-light, high-performance MSL1000 material, this board delivers exceptional stiffness, stability and responsiveness. With a well-balanced shape and a generous 32" width, the Compact is easy to paddle for riders of varied skill levels, offering smooth glide, confident stability and nimble handling. Its advanced construction also keeps pack-down size by 50% - ideal if you want a board that’s ready for any adventure.

Best Long Distance Upgrade - 14'0" Voyager MSL 800 Inflatable Paddle Board

If your goal is to cover more water with less effort, the 14'0" Voyager MSL 800 Red paddle board is an excellent upgrade for serious touring and long-distance paddling. With a long, streamlined design, the Voyager excels in tracking and efficiency, cutting through water with remarkable stability. This board is optimised for distance and endurance, while still offering a comfortable ride and the ability to carry gear for long expeditions. With a flexible cargo system front and rear, it’s a top choice if you’re looking to step up to something capable of serious adventure.

Best Racing Upgrade - 14'0" Elite MSL 800 Inflatable Paddle Board

Paddlers chasing speed, competition or fast fitness sessions, will want the 14'0" Elite MSL 800 Red paddle board. It’s a high-performance racing board that delivers exceptional agility and efficiency. Constructed in MSL800 material with enhanced stiffness, this board’s slender profile and narrow nose cut through the water with minimal drag, helping you maximise performance in racing scenarios.

Best SUP Surfing Upgrade - 9'2" Compact MSL 1000 Inflatable Paddle Board

While the 11'0" Compact works very well as an all-rounder, its design comes into its own in surf and freeride sessions in coastal conditions. It’s agile, and its compact shape blends manoeuvrability with stability. If you’re keen on SUP surfing, it’s an awesome upgrade from a larger, generic all-round board that may not respond as well in breaking water.

Best Upgrade For Beginners - 11'3" Sport MSL 800 Inflatable Paddle Board

For those newer to the sport or seeking a stable, easy-to-paddle upgrade from a basic entry-level board, the award-winning 11'3" Sport MSL 800 from Red’s Future Series strikes a perfect balance between performance and accessibility. This excellent Red paddle board sports a streamlined but forgiving shape that offers improved glide and stability over traditional beginner boards, making it easier to build confidence while being well-suited to longer paddles, light touring and some surfing too. 

If you have any questions about a particular Red paddle board, our expert team will be more than happy to assist. Simply get in contact with us today to find out more.